Heath Elementary’s 10-year-old Sukhmani Sanghera became Delta’s Fire Chief-for-a-Day, learning leadership, teamwork, and real fire safety skills.
A Day to Remember for Delta’s Youngest Fire Chief
Last Friday wasn’t just another school day for 10-year-old Sukhmani Sanghera of Heath Elementary it was a day filled with sirens, smiles, and sparks of inspiration. Chosen from a pool of eager students across Delta, Sukhmani proudly stepped into the boots of Delta’s Fire Chief-for-a-Day, a beloved community program that turns young learners into honorary fire leaders for a day.
From Pancakes to Fire Hoses: The Ultimate Hands-On Lesson
The morning kicked off with a hearty pancake breakfast alongside Delta Mayor George Harvie—a perfect start before diving into a day of fire-filled adventures.
At Fire Hall No. 1 in Ladner, Sukhmani suited up and got hands-on experience with the crew. With a little guidance, she operated a real fire hose, knocking down a giant wooden flame target like a pro. She even learned how to handle a fire extinguisher a vital skill that might come in handy one day.
Her highlight of the day?
“The firetruck!” she exclaimed, after riding inside the roaring red engine, lights flashing and siren wailing.
Lessons in Leadership and Safety
After lunch at Fire Hall No. 3 in North Delta, Sukhmani’s adventure continued at Fire Hall No. 4 in Boundary Bay, where she learned the delicate art of vehicle rescue a real firefighter’s skill.
For Fire Chief Guy McKintuck, the Fire Chief-for-a-Day program is about much more than fun.
“It gives students a unique opportunity to see what it means to be a leader and to learn about fire safety,” McKintuck explained.
Since its start in 1985, the program has been inspiring students from grades 4 to 7 to explore leadership, teamwork, and safety awareness.
Building Bonds Beyond the Fire Hall
According to Chief McKintuck, the connection formed through the program often lasts for years.
“Past Fire Chiefs-for-a-Day still come up to say hi at community events,” he shared. “It’s a lasting bond that keeps the community close.”
Beyond the program, Delta’s fire department also runs school visits to teach children essential fire safety habits like ‘stop, drop, and roll’ to help them react calmly in emergencies.
“We want kids to know we’re here to help,” said McKintuck. “If we engage with them early, they’ll see firefighters as friends, not strangers.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Heroes
For Sukhmani, the day wasn’t just about playing Fire Chief it was about learning courage, teamwork, and leadership firsthand. And for Delta’s firefighters, it was a reminder of why these community connections matter.
As McKintuck put it best,
“We get as much out of it as the kids do maybe even more.”
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